A Few Kitchen Remodeling Project Tips

December 27th, 2016

Kitchen Remodeling Project How to Get the Most Out of a Kitchen Remodeling Project

It is fairly easy to understand why kitchen remodeling ranks as one of the most popular home improvement projects; the modern kitchen has certainly become the centerpiece of home living. But apart from that, a well-built kitchen can increase functionality, makes it easier to entertain guests at home, and increases property value.

But remodeling a kitchen entails spending a sizeable amount of money and involves a few inconveniences while work is ongoing. It is also not unusual for property owners to encounter a wide variety of problems ranging from overspending to project timelines being continuously pushed back.

If you want to minimize (if not totally avoid) these problems and ensure that you get good returns on your investment, here are some kitchen remodeling project tips for you to consider.

Planning is Key

Planning is the most essential step that homeowners need to undertake, and yet is one that is often overlooked. Failing to plan accordingly can only lead to mishaps during the construction stage as well as overspending.

Ideally, you should spend at least half a year toward planning. This will give you enough time to decide on what you really want to achieve and prevent changing your mind mid-stream.

Think of the Remodel as an Upgrade

One critical factor that can drive up costs and extend the project timeline is changing the location of pipes and electrical systems. Additional works like tearing down walls can also lead to higher costs and extended timelines.

To streamline the kitchen remodel process, opt to keep as much of the existing kitchen in place.

Prioritize Design and Functionality

Want to avoid overspending? Choose your appliances well. One of the most common pitfalls encountered by homeowners is the temptation to upgrade appliances more than necessary. Instead of spending lavishly on new equipment and tools, think about how your remodel will improve both the design and functionality of your new kitchen.

Don’t Forget About the Lighting

Choosing the right type of lighting can instantly upgrade the look of your kitchen without needing to spend an inordinate sum of money. Additionally, the right type of light can make the kitchen look bigger and safer to work in.

There are two types of lighting to choose from. Task lighting is ideal for dark work areas. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, is primarily used to create a specific mood in an area.

Look Beyond the Price

Unless you are working on an unlimited budget, you may have some corners that you need to cut. But do not simply trade in low cost for quality and durability. Remember, you are making an investment. If you must splurge, focus on quality and durable items which will last long.

Establish a Good Working Relationship With Your Contractor

Quite simply, you need to be involved with the project if you wish to achieve great results.

From time to time, drop by during work hours and check on the project progress. This sends a signal to the contractor that you expect nothing less than quality work.

Make it easy for the contractor to contact you should any concern arise.

Set ground rules for both the contractor and his workers, especially if you are not moving out of the property while the kitchen is being rebuilt.

Are you starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley? Contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing and allow them to help take the stress out of your upcoming kitchen remodeling project.

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A Few Things To Think About Before Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

December 22nd, 2016

Bathroom Remodel ProjectComponents You Should Never Forget About When Starting a Bathroom Remodel Project

The bathroom is a very important room in any house; everybody spends a good amount of time in it each day. This is the main reason why it makes complete sense that a lot of people want to make it as visually and functionally satisfying as possible.

If you’re thinking about starting a bathroom remodel project, it’s important to plan this carefully. You need to make sure that your normal routines won’t get too disrupted by the project. Do determine where you will shower and perform your other hygiene practices while your bathroom is getting a makeover.

As for the project itself, plan how to make it as cost- and time-efficient as possible. For this, trusted bathroom remodelers in Applegate and Fox Valley have rounded up below the components you need to consider when carrying out a bathroom remodel project.

Budget

You need to establish how much money you’re willing to spend in order to achieve the new look and level of function you want for the room. Having a clear budget for the project will bring better focus to your shopping, and at the same time, it will allow you to get a better sense of how much time you need for the job, and even who to hire for the job.

Schedule

Study how much time is needed for the job and when to carry out the project; also, expect delays. A Wisconsin-based plumbing company says that delays are simply the reality for every project, so take this into consideration and prepare for it the best way you can.

Problems

Clearly identify the current problems with the bathroom and create a checklist of these for your remodelers so they can tackle them one by one. Doing this will ascertain that the project will be carried out in the most efficient manner.

Beauty and Utility

Decide what new style, as well as improved functionality, you want for the bathroom. Determine the color scheme and the kinds of tiles, lighting, accessories, and other visual implements you want. As for functionality, think about the experience you want to have every time you use the bathroom, and perhaps, think about how it can boost your home’s market value, too.

Contractor

A bathroom remodel project is a highly technical job; you will need the services of a professional contractor to ensure the best results and even to stick with your budget. With a contractor, you can avoid all sorts of costly and time-consuming mistakes.

If you are thinking about starting a bathroom remodel in Fox Cities, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing to set up a consultation.

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Starting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

December 20th, 2016

Kitchen Remodel ProjectStarting a Kitchen Remodel Project on the Right Foot

Even the most minor of kitchen remodels entails more than a monetary investment. At the same time, you will need to invest time and deal with some hassles as you try to bring your kitchen remodel project into life.

As such, you would like to get the best returns on your investment, whatever your purpose may be for your project kitchen. In order to do that, you need to avoid one of the most common mistakes in starting a kitchen remodel project: proceeding without a plan.

As the old adage goes, failing to plan is planning to fail. Quite simply, the planning stage is an integral aspect of a kitchen remodel. Give ample time and effort toward planning so that you can get the kitchen that you have always dreamed of.

How do you do that?

Find Sources of Inspiration and Gather These

Perhaps you have unconsciously started this process by looking for inspiration from TV shows, magazines and blogs.

But in order to get the most out of this step, you will need to create your own stylebook. To do that, the first thing that you need to do is to gather all the photos which inspire you in one place. Tear out photos from magazines and print out photos you have found online.

After that, write down exactly what you like about these photos. Now, when you have found a kitchen designer and/or contractor, you can show your stylebook.

Set a Clear Goal

What’s the reason why you want to remodel your kitchen? Perhaps you want to resell your home a few years down the road. Or maybe you want to facilitate the optimal flow of traffic in your kitchen. Or maybe you simply want to turn your kitchen into a great place to entertain guests. Whatever your reasons may be, you have to be clear with your needs and wants.

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget allows you to avoid overspending. In fact, failure to set a budget is one of the leading costs of overspending on kitchen remodels. Go online and use available tools to help you figure out how much you will need for your project. From there, you can look for items on your shopping list that you might think are unnecessary or too costly. After that, you can find alternatives that will help you stay within your budget.

Create a Timeline

Apart from setting a financial budget for the project, you will also need to determine how much time you are willing to allocate for the completion of the project. Set a project timeline and talk about this when you are interviewing prospective contractors.

Be Realistic

Talk to friends or relatives who have recently had their kitchens remodeled. This will give you a fair idea of what to expect and help you avoid being blindsided by unexpected factors.

If you are thinking about starting a kitchen remodel in Fox Valley, contact the professionals at Turek’s Plumbing.

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What Is the Potential Cost of a Plumbing Leak?

December 15th, 2016

Cost of a Plumbing LeakCost of a Plumbing Leak | How Much Could A Potential Plumbing Leak Cost You?

Homeowners, admittedly, have a tendency to take the condition of their plumbing system for granted. As long as water flows every time they turn on the faucet or shower, there’s no need to think about the dynamics of the system of pipes behind or underneath the sinks, bathtubs and showers that make the delivery of that water possible.

As such, it’s quite common for people to miss subtle and even more obvious signs that there are problems such as a plumbing leak developing. And when these leaks remain unnoticed or ignored for some time, they can cause significant damage to the house — and this damage can potentially translate to hundreds or even thousands of dollars’ worth in repairs. That’s money that could have been used toward more important necessities, such as groceries for the family, utility bills, and school tuition.

Here, plumbing professionals in Wisconsin share a brief overview of the potential cost of a plumbing leak.

The Effect: Mold

Leaking or burst pipes that run behind your house’s walls can create moisture on the drywall. After some time, this moisture will find its way through the walls in the form of wet spots.

You may notice a particularly wet or musty smell coming from your walls; this is a sign that there’s a leak exposing your walls to moisture, and that black mold has begun to set in.

To resolve this problem, you may need to do two things:

  • Call in mold remediation experts. Their services can typically run from $500 to $3,000.
  • Have the damaged sections of your wall removed. To give you an idea of the cost (especially if large wall sections were damaged), just 100 square feet of drywall can already set you back by $400.

The Effect: Water Damage on Floors

Aside from walls, water can also cause damage to floors since it naturally flows downward—any leak will eventually collect on and underneath the floors of a kitchen or bathroom.

The signs you should look for are puddles of water on the kitchen or bathroom floor that weren’t caused by spills or splashes from taking a shower or washing dishes. Also, loose tiles around the bathtub or sink point to water damage.

To fix floors that have been damaged by water, you need to:

  • Remove and replace floorboards, plus install new tile. Professionals can charge anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500.
  • Replace hardwood floors. These cost about $12 to $30 per square foot.

The Effect: Broken Fixtures

Persistent leaks can cause components of the fixtures, such as rubber gaskets, to rot. In some cases, these damaged elements can get stuck inside the pipes and result in weakened water pressure. In general, constant leaks can lead to faulty showerheads and faucets.

You need to:

  • Replace the damaged fixtures. Depending on the brand and material you choose, kitchen and bathroom hardware can cost between $100 and $500.

The potential cost of a plumbing leak is not something that homeowners should ignore. To maintain the proper flow of water into your property and to avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future, be mindful of any signs of leaks and get in touch with your trusted Fox Valley Plumbers
 right away.

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When is the Best Time to Remodel a Bathroom?

December 13th, 2016

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox ValleyThe Best Time to Remodel Your Bathroom

A remodeling project demands efficient preparation to avoid different hassles and to control costs. So, 

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox Valley – Timing

One of the most important things to direct attention to is the time for the remodel. You need to consider when it’ll be physically and mentally convenient for you. Likewise, you have to find out if the schedule you’re setting for the project to be carried out will “help” the budget you have; that’s because there are certain times of the year wherein you can get huge discounts on products you want to use for remodeling your bathroom (or another room in your house).

According to bathroom remodelers in Fox Valley and Applegate, Wisconsin, the best time to remodel your bathroom is after Thanksgiving and right before Christmas. For a lot of homeowners, this time period doesn’t seem like a logical choice because everybody’s so busy during the holiday season. The pros, however, point out that with a clearly set plan, the project can be completed really quickly so it woudn’t be too big a hassle for families.

Best Time for Bathroom Remodel Savings

Bathroom remodelers also say that during Black Friday you could find incredible deals on decor, appliances and more! You can save as much as 70% on all of your purchases. If you buy items in bundles and you demonstrate strong haggling skills you could save even more. 

It’s worth noting as well that Christmas discount gift cards are also released on Black Friday so even if you’re unable to buy certain items on this day, you can still get good deals for items you need as Christmas approaches.

Bathroom Remodeling in Fox Valley During the Holidays 

Here’s another reason: Since you’re going to have family over during Christmas, it’s good to really make your home pretty. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is enough for a bathroom remodel to be carried out.

It’s a good idea to schedule your bathroom remodel after Thanksgiving and just before Christmas. A bathroom remodel between the holidays really does present a lot of advantages, particularly in terms of cost. So, think about it – going with this schedule may just work out really well for you.

Are you thinking about a bathroom remodel in Fox Cities? Contact Turek’s Plumbing, and allow professionals to take on your next remodeling project.

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Remodeling a Bathroom in an Old House

December 8th, 2016

adfsdgdfgfdgTips for Remodeling a Bathroom in an Old House

Aside from the kitchen, the bathroom is the one room in the house that easily succumbs to wear and tear. Entire households make use of this specific room to take care of their hygiene needs every day. Also, the presence of moisture, humidity and all kinds of chemicals and substances from the different bath and cleaning products used here can do significant damage to furnishings and fixtures that are not designed to withstand such an environment.

If remodeling a bathroom in an old house is a project that you mean to take up in the near future, then you need to keep a few simple design options and tips in mind so that your new bathroom can successfully function and stand up to constant use — and look pretty, too. Here are some ideas you should consider:

Select a high-performing toilet

One of the biggest bathroom remodel tips is to pick a toilet that is right for you. There is a wide range of high-efficiency toilets available today that not only get the job done after your business is completed, but also let you conserve resources and the environment.

Choose your tiles well

You may have specific preferences for the way your floor tiles function in the bathroom. If you have small children or elderly relatives living with you, for instance, you may lean more toward having a non-slip floor installed in your new bathroom. Tiles with matte finishes, plenty of grout lines, textured surfaces or glazes with sand would be ideal for this purpose.

If you want a low-maintenance tile floor, on the other hand, stick to glazed or porcelain tiles. Stay away from natural stone since these are porous — they absorb water and develop stains if they are improperly sealed, which means more cleaning time for you.

Pick an acrylic caulk

This kind of formula can be easily removed even without using strong chemicals. The formula can make it easy to remove the next time replacement is in order. It’s also worthwhile to pick caulk that comes with a long-lasting mildewcide.

Install a sink that fits your family’s requirements

If you need more storage and countertops, a vanity with sink would be an excellent choice. For less utility but more style, a vessel sink would be a nice touch. A standard pedestal sink would also be a good compromise between aesthetics and function.

Update your wiring

Years (perhaps decades) of plugging in hairdryers, hair straightening irons, electric toothbrushes and electric razors have surely taken a toll on your bathroom’s outlets and wiring, so give them an overhaul. Replace 15-amp wirings with 20-amp ones and provide enough outlets for everyone’s appliances.

Your local plumber has the best tips on remodeling a bathroom in your home. Contact a Fox Cities plumber at Turek’s Plumbing today.

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The Importance of a Water Heater Maintenance

December 6th, 2016

Water Heater MaintenanceWater Heater Maintenance | Reasons to Flush Your Water Heater

Thanks to modern water systems, the water you drink is reliably clean, safe and healthy for your household’s use. That’s because the sediments and minerals you don’t want in your drink have already been filtered by the system.

But these substances do not completely disappear. Some of the materials simply settle at the bottom of the water heater tank. This residue — or more accurately, sludge — is not only extremely unappealing to look at. The worst thing about excessive sediment build-up is that it can cause several problems in the performance of your water heater which can lead you to experience extreme inconvenience and unnecessary expenses.  

These problems are the main reasons you should invest in a water heater maintenance. If you want to avoid these problems, you need to make it a habit to flush your water heater on a yearly basis. Doing so will deliver the following benefits:

You can expect more reliable service from your water heater

Sediment build-up can make it difficult for your tank to heat water up. When you get rid of sludge, you enable your water heater tank to run more smoothly and reliably.   

You enjoy lower energy bills

If your heater is in good condition, it won’t need to work as hard and consumer energy that’s more than necessary. You’ll see a reduction in your power bills once your water heater regains its efficient operations.

You reduce water heater damage

An overworked water heater due to excessive sediment at the bottom can easily leak, get rusty or even burst.   

You avoid costly water damage

A leaking or faulty water heater tank can cause water to seep into your property. As you know, moisture and excessive water can cause water damage, weaken the structure, and ruin your walls, ceilings, electrical systems and more. You significantly lower the possibility of all these when you vigilantly flush your water heater annually.  

Why get experts?

Some homeowners who are confident with doing DIY work can do it themselves. The process entails opening the drain located at the bottom of the tank and then removing the sediment by running clean water on it.

However, many prefer the more practical and efficient way: hiring professional plumbers to complete a water heater maintenance. When you get reliable experts to do it for you, you ensure thorough results. Moreover, reliable Fox Valley plumber at Turek’s Plumbing will not only focus on solving the excessive sediment issue, but they will also look into the overall condition of your water heater, ensuring good performance for the years to come.

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Common Commercial Plumbing Problems (and How to Avoid Them)

November 24th, 2016

commercial-plumbingCommon Commercial Plumbing Problems

A plumbing issue in your commercial property can be one of the costliest and most inconvenient situations you can face. If left unattended, even a minor issue can become a serious and complicated problem within just a short span of time. The flow of your operations, the health and safety of your clients and employees, and your everyday productivity and efficiency can all be affected by commercial plumbing problems.  

While addressing plumbing problems promptly is important, the best course of action is still to be proactive in preventing issues before they happen. As an owner, manager or caretaker of a commercial property, it’s your duty to be familiar with common commercial plumbing problems so you can undertake measures to reduce their possibility of occurring.  

Common Plumbing Problems

Water leaking from pipes, taps and fixtures is a frequent problem for both commercial and residential plumbing systems. Leaks can be caused by a variety of reasons, from simple, everyday wear-and-tear to worn-out connectors to pipe damage.

Leaking can cause property damage, flooding and a significant waste of water and energy. Thus, it’s a must to conduct routine check-ups and maintenance. Plumbing maintenance should be performed by a professional. A good plumbing check up will include checking the condition of each component in your plumbing system.

Another common plumbing issue is blocked drains and clogged toilets and sinks. When drainage is slow or not working well, the accumulated water may eventually overflow. When the water overflows it can be extremely difficult to control and clean up.  

Clogged Toilet

Meanwhile, a clogged toilet is the last thing you would want to worry about when managing a commercial property. Aside from the possible overflow, it may also cause unpleasant odors and health risks if it’s not addressed immediately.

Commercial property owners must then be very strict about keeping bathrooms, restrooms and other wet areas clean and well-maintained. All the time to prevent debris and foreign objects from blocking drainage systems.

How to Prevent Commercial Plumbing Problems

Don’t call a plumber only when an emergency happens. It’s best to look for a reputable local plumber to perform maintenance work, systems upgrades and replacements. The more familiar a plumber is with your system, the better they will be able to solve problems should those arise.

Your Fox Cities plumbing team at Turek’s Plumbing will not just assess the system and hunt for damage. They will also conduct improvements and other related jobs to ensure pipework and drainage systems are working in tip-top condition.

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Affordable Kitchen Upgrade Trends | Touch Free Faucets

November 22nd, 2016

Touch-Free Faucets – Must-Have Kitchen Upgrade Trends

Planning a kitchen remodel? Consider adding these low cost but high impact upgrades to your shopping list: touch-free faucets.

Kitchen upgrade trends come and go. Some move into the pantheon of essentials that property owners put on top of their priority lists while others are consigned to a forgotten fate. What makes these kitchen upgrades appealing for homeowners planning to revamp their kitchens? Three key reasons: convenient food preparation, quick clean-up and sanitary reasons. These are the trends that tend to last. 

Foot activated Faucets

Many manufacturers are launching different versions of touch-free faucets which use foot control technology. Through this foot control technology, you can easily and conveniently turn the faucet on and off by tapping the activation plate with your feet. This activation plate can be installed in the toe space of a cabinet. It’s pretty convenient, but does take some getting used to. 

Because these faucets do not require the use of hands to be turned on and off, the chance of spreading bacteria like salmonella and other germs from handling food can be minimized. If not totally eliminated. This concept has been present in hospitals for decades. It is now becoming a popular trend among homeowners. The foot activation plate can be positioned anywhere along the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet. This means that persons with disabilities who use wheelchairs do not need to put themselves in an uncomfortable position just to turn the water on and off. All they have to do is to tap the activation plate.

Touch Control Faucets

A hands-free faucet was first developed in the 1950’s but was not sold to the public until the 80’s. They have since become extremely trendy.  Even being used as a selling point in real estate listings. One of our favorite touch free faucets features a sensor which controls the faucet’s output as well as the water temperature. It has five infrared sensors strategically located on the faucet. The water temperature has three settings that can be defined by the user depending on preference. In order to prevent accidental scalding, the faucet also has a maximum temperature setting. The faucet comes in brushed nickel and polished nickel, giving it a stylish and modern look. The faucet comes with a backup battery, is ADA-compliant, and is certified by WaterSense.

Whether you choose to install your own faucet or you need a plumber to do it, we hope you find this post helpful. There are dozens of brands of touch free faucets. Most reputable brands will work well and last a long time. Prices can range from just under $100 to $400 for a luxury brand. Also keep in mind you will have labor charges when hiring a licensed plumber to do the work. Should you need help and live in the Appleton or Fox Valley area, contact Turek’s Plumbing for all of your bathroom remodel needs.

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When it is Time to Replace Your Home’s Galvanized Pipes

November 20th, 2016

Is It Time for a Whole Home Repipe? 

If you’re not sure what a re-pipe is, you are not alone. Most homeowners dont know either until the problem arises. Galvanized pipes were commonly used in homes built around 1981. Galvanized pipes are deceptive because they corrode on the inside.  Because of that it is difficult to detect a corrosion problem without a plumbers camera. Over time, the buildup of rust and sediment inside galvanized pipes can cause low water pressure, clogs, and leaks. When this happens you may need to replace one small section of the damaged pipe, or a larger piece in extreme cases. 

It’s not rare to find out that your 30 plus year old home is beginning to have compound plumbing issues. When the plumbing at home begins to exhibiting signs of damage or degradation it might be an indicator of something bigger. The typical response to these types of issues is to call your local plumber. Depending on how soon your plumber can arrive to provide a solution, you may need to use your plumbing fixtures in moderation. If it is a more severe sewer problem where your plumbing is completely out of order be sure to call for an emergency plumber. 

Repiping your entire house

A whole home repipe won’t likely be something that you would need done on your property more than once. It’s a last-resort option that plumbers will recommend to their clients — but it is necessary in certain situations. Whole house repiping is an effective measure that can protect your home from future leaks and further water damage.

Is it time for a whole home repipe? Here are questions that can help you determine if it’s the best move to make now:

Have you had to call in plumbers several times over the years, because of problems with leaks? How often do you find leaks? If it’s becoming frequent, then that might mean that your plumbing system is failing.

Does your house have hard water?

You’re sure to have heard the term hard water before. It pertains to water that contains a high concentration of the minerals magnesium and calcium. You can tell that you have hard water at home when you observe a yellow-green or white buildup around plumbing fixtures such as showerheads and faucets. The minerals can build up and reduce the water pressure in a house. The best solution would be to have a pipe inspection done. Having a camera inspection performed will tell you 

How old is your home?

Today’s houses are typically fitted with plastic or copper pipes; older homes, on the other hand, may have galvanized pipes made of steel. Steel can develop corrosion and rust over time, and they can pick up contaminants from water and the ground, such as lead. If your house still has its original steel pipes, it’s best to get your plumbers to check their condition and determine whether they need to be replaced with a safer and more modern material.

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